With a few months delay compared to previous years, the World Motocross Championship will get underway on Sunday in Orlyonok, Russia. 21-year-old Jago Geerts is aiming for the world title in the MX2 category, although he sustained a knee injury in France last weekend.
After a third place in 2019 and a second place in 2020 in the World Cup final standings, the Belgian Yamaha rider will compete for the world title with the French title holder Tom Vialle (KTM). Geerts also takes into account the Italian Mattia Guadagnini (KTM).
However, our compatriot will not start in top form in the first World Cup round. “Last weekend I suffered a small injury but after positive advice from my physiotherapist I will be behind the gate during the first GP of the season. My hunger to race is great,” Geerts stated on Instagram.
In the MX2, with Nathan Renkens (KTM), 22nd last year, and Julian Vander Auwera (Husqvarna), who switches from the EM125 category, two more Belgians participate.
Slovenian Tim Gajser defends his title in the MXGP. Although the Dutchman Jeffrey Herlings, who took the overall victory in 2018, and the Italian Antonio Cairoli, seven times the best at the highest level, are also lurking.
The 31-year-old Jeremy Van Horebeek, ninth last year, decided to add another season, this time on a Beta. The 35-year-old Kevin Strijbos (Yamaha) hopes to be able to finish a full season after a lot of injuries. 25-year-old Brent Van Doninck (Yamaha) is also present, as is 21-year-old Cyril Genot (KTM), who will make his debut with the big boys and will compete in a few GPs.
There are 19 World Cup motos on the program. The GP in Lommel is scheduled for August 1.